Meeting with PCHA

Last Friday, we held a two-hour meeting with Pathmeads and PCHA at their offices in Harrow Road.

We spent an hour discussion Dibdin House and the ongoing works to the property. Finally, after a couple of delays (due to additional drainage replacement), the works are apparently due to be completed within the next month or so. There does seem to be quite a bit of work left to do, so maybe this is a little optimistic - but we've asked to be kept informed.

The really good news, however, though is that Pathmeads are changing the way in which they liaise and communicate with local residents. From this week a new Estate Manager will be in place (Michelle Clapham) who will have the power to organise minor repairs without needing to gain approval from elsewhere. In addition, Pathmeads intend to re-open an office on the Estate during part of the week to deal with resident problems and queries. This is something we have argued for over a number of years - and we are very glad Pathmeads have eventually agreed to the change.

The second hour was devoted to a meeting with the Managing Director of PCHA, Pam Lockley, to discuss the concerns of Randolph Avenue residents. We held an informal surgery with residents last month where real concern was expressed about (i) a lack of communication and interest from Pathmeads, (ii) problems with getting in touch with PCHA when problems and queries were raised and (iii) the new service charges (which seemed to have just been made up on the back of a fag packet).

Ms Lockley agreed that the implementation of the new service charges had been badly handled and, at our request, currently has two PCHA employees contacting all those in Randolph who have raised queries. She also accepts that communications have been poor and has agreed to look into how this can be addressed. We told PCHA in no uncertain terms that their current lack of involvement and poor customer service is absolutely unacceptable - and PCHA, to their credit, took this on the chin (it helped that we had specific examples which we personally had experienced!). One of my worse nightmares is having to phone the PCHA offices in Willesden - and that's if it ever connects. Still, they have promised to work over the next few months to improve and we'll be working very closely with PCHA tenants to make sure they keep their promise.

If you have any issue with your housing association, please do let us know - we would be very happy to take this up.

Jan